Sabella handed Argentina role

02 August 2011 11:03

Alejandro Sabella will take over as Argentina coach until after the 2014 World Cup finals, Argentinian Football Association president Julio Grondona has confirmed.

AFA general secretary Jose Luis Meiszner last week revealed former Estudiantes boss Sabella was the first choice to succeed Sergio Batista, who was sacked after the team's dismal Copa America showing last month. Grondona has validated his colleague's comments, but said there would no formal unveiling, with Sabella's appointment now common knowledge.

Grondona told Fox Sports: "The details are being finalised but Sabella has already been presented (in the media) and will be coach from now until the World Cup in Brazil, contingent on Argentina qualifying for the tournament."

Sabella, 56, had been expected to take over United Arab Emirates team Al-Jazira, having signed an agreement to coach the UAE Pro-League club on June 11. But he failed to arrive in the country on schedule, opting instead to take up the opportunity to lead his national team.

After a playing career that included spells at River Plate, Sheffield United, Leeds and Estudiantes, Sabella served regularly as an assistant coach to Daniel Passarella, who was head coach of Argentina between 1994 and 1998.

Passarella and Sabella also worked together with Uruguay, Italian side Parma, Corinthians of Brazil and Mexican team Monterrey.

Sabella then led Estudiantes to Copa Libertadores glory in 2009 and the Argentinian Apertura title a year later, before resigning in February 2011.